Belmont Park may be known for its vintage roller coasters and boardwalk buzz, but there’s plenty to explore nearby that won’t cost you a cent. Whether you're in the mood for scenic coastal walks, quirky shops, or a relaxed day on the sand, Mission Beach and its surroundings offer a laid-back slice of San Diego life—no wallet required. Here's your guide to the best free things to do near Belmont Park, from sun-drenched strolls to sweet treats that are just for browsing (unless temptation wins).
Stroll the Mission Beach Boardwalk
📍 Address: Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 0 minutes (it starts here!)
💸 Budget: Free
Nothing captures the beachside energy of San Diego quite like a stroll down the Mission Beach Boardwalk. This vibrant pedestrian path stretches for nearly two miles, winding past colorful shops, street performers, and some of the city’s most relaxed oceanfront homes. It’s a people-watching paradise, especially on sunny weekends when locals roll by on skates and bikes.
Expect bursts of energy from rollerbladers in retro shorts, buskers laying down guitar solos, and families cruising past on surreys. The beach is never more than a few feet away, so it’s easy to hop onto the sand for a mid-walk paddle. Bring your camera too—between the palm-fringed path and Pacific waves, it’s a classic San Diego setting.
Chill Out at South Mission Beach
📍 Address: S Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 10 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
A little quieter than the buzzing boardwalk stretch, South Mission Beach feels like a locals-only retreat. Tucked away at the end of the peninsula, this beach offers wide, soft sands perfect for sunbathing, volleyball, or just zoning out to the sound of the surf.
If you’re traveling with kids, the shallower waves and calmer atmosphere here make it a great spot for a sandcastle session or a splash around the shore. Look out for the iconic jetty at the southern tip—it’s popular with fishermen, sunset chasers, and the occasional sea lion.
Catch Sunset at the South Mission Jetty
📍 Address: S Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 12 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
There’s something undeniably calming about the slow golden fade of a California sunset, and South Mission Jetty delivers a front-row seat. This long, rocky jetty extends out into the ocean and offers panoramic views of the Pacific, Mission Bay, and even the silhouette of Point Loma in the distance.
Bring a blanket, find a spot on the rocks, and settle in as the sky shifts from tangerine to indigo. You’ll spot locals fishing, couples sipping drinks from thermoses, and photographers chasing that golden-hour glow. It's a simple pleasure—and one of the most romantic ways to wind down near Belmont Park.
Window Shop and Snack Sample at Mission Beach Surf Shops
📍 Address: 3785 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109 (and others along the strip)
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 5 minutes
💸 Budget: Free (unless you buy a board!)
Wandering through the colorful surf shops of Mission Beach is a vibe all its own. Whether you're eyeing the racks of retro tees, admiring beach cruisers, or flipping through postcards and stickers, this laid-back stretch of retail therapy is all part of the SoCal charm.
The staff are usually chilled-out and happy to talk surf conditions or give advice on beginner gear—even if you're just browsing. Some shops even offer free sticker giveaways or let you test out the grip of different boards. If you’re curious about local beachwear style or just want an air-conditioned breather, these shops are a fun way to spend a half-hour.
Browse Belmont Park’s Vintage Arcade and Carnival Vibes
Browse Belmont Park’s Vintage Arcade and Carnival Vibes
📍 Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from anywhere in Belmont Park: <1 minute
💸 Budget: Free to enter
Sure, the rides and games come with a fee, but just wandering through Belmont Park’s vintage arcade, midway games, and neon-lit alleys is a visual treat. It’s got that nostalgic seaside carnival energy—complete with flashing lights, buzzing pinball sounds, and the occasional whoop of a skee-ball winner.
Stroll beneath the Giant Dipper roller coaster, browse the retro signage, and enjoy the energy of a classic amusement park in full swing. The setting is perfect for snapping photos or soaking up the ambiance, and you can often catch live music or small events for free in the courtyard.
Watch the Waves with a Coffee from Cannonball (Takeaway Only!)
📍 Address: 3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 2 minutes
💸 Budget: Free if you BYO flask or just hang on the boardwalk
You don’t have to dine in at Cannonball to enjoy its ocean views. This rooftop sushi and cocktail lounge often has a buzz even in the morning, but if you're walking past and want to enjoy the vibe without splurging, just grab a takeaway coffee from a nearby vendor and perch on the sea wall below.
Locals and visitors often gather here to people-watch, wave-spot, and soak in the smell of salt and soy sauce from above. Whether you're solo or with friends, it’s a relaxing, free way to pause and let the beach rhythm take over.
Snap a Selfie at the Surfboard Wall
📍 Address: 715 Ventura Pl, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 1 minute
💸 Budget: Free
Tucked just behind the main strip, the colorful surfboard wall outside Mission Beach Rentals is a total photo magnet. A curated mash-up of surfboards stacked vertically against a bold mural backdrop makes this a standout stop for quick snaps with real SoCal flavor.
This corner’s perfect for group photos, selfies, or just a cheeky moment of surf-inspired posing. Plus, it’s located steps from where you can rent a cruiser bike or paddleboard if you’re tempted to take your beach day up a notch afterward.
Walk the Strand from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach
📍 Address: Start from 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 0 minutes (it begins right there)
💸 Budget: Free
This 2.5-mile stretch of boardwalk delivers prime ocean views, people-watching galore, and a rotating cast of street performers, skaters, and sun-chasers. You’ll pass beach volleyball games, stylish cafés, quirky shops, and sun-drenched patios, all with the Pacific on one side and classic SoCal life on the other.
Whether you walk it all the way to Crystal Pier or just go for a quick stroll, it’s a breezy, energizing way to connect Mission Beach and Pacific Beach. Early mornings are quieter, while afternoons bring all the buzz.
Chill Out by the Fire Pits at South Mission Beach
📍 Address: N Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 15–20 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
If you're up for a slightly longer walk, South Mission Beach offers a more tranquil stretch of sand with designated fire pits for a beachy bonfire vibe. It’s a great spot to wind down after a day near the rides and roller coasters, especially if you’ve brought snacks or a blanket.
While the pits are first come, first served, showing up around sunset gets you the golden light and a chance to snag a spot. You don’t need to light a fire to enjoy it either—just being there with the smell of sea air and the sound of crashing waves is enough.
Watch the Sunset at the South Mission Jetty
Watch the Sunset at the South Mission Jetty
📍 Address: End of N Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 15–20 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
There’s something quietly magical about ending your day at the jetty. As the sun dips below the horizon, this rocky outcrop becomes a front-row seat to golden hour, framed by ocean spray and the silhouettes of surfers riding the last waves of the day.
It’s a local favorite for a reason—less crowded than the central beach, with uninterrupted views and salty air. You might catch pelicans gliding overhead or the occasional dolphin pod offshore. If you’re visiting with friends or a date, this spot gets top marks for chilled-out romance.
Stroll Through the Mission Beach Mural Alley
📍 Address: Mission Blvd near Santa Clara Pl, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 7–10 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
Blink and you’ll miss it, but this little-known alley is a burst of creative energy. Local artists have turned garage doors, walls, and back entrances into an outdoor gallery of street art—colorful, bold, and full of California personality.
You’ll find surf culture homages, vintage signage nods, and quirky character pieces. It’s a quick detour but makes for fun photo ops, especially if you're already exploring the area on foot. Perfect for those who like a little edge with their beach day.
Explore the Tide Pools at South Mission Beach (low tide only)
📍 Address: N Jetty Rd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 15–20 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
Time your visit right and you can discover one of the coolest natural experiences in the area—tide pools! These rocky pockets appear during low tide near the jetty, revealing tiny sea critters like hermit crabs, sea anemones, and small fish.
It's a hit with curious kids, amateur photographers, and beachcombers alike. Just watch your step, wear shoes with grip, and double check the tide chart before you go. It’s nature’s version of a pop-up exhibit—and it’s totally free.
Here we go — the next three free things to do near Belmont Park:
People-Watch on the Ocean Front Walk
📍 Address: Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 1–2 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
Ocean Front Walk is the ultimate stage for San Diego life in motion. Skaters, cyclists, joggers, street performers—you name it, they’re here. It’s a vibrant mix of locals and visitors soaking up the sunshine and beach energy.
Grab a bench or lean on the railings and let the colorful parade roll by. You’ll hear the sound of rollerblades slicing the path, reggae music from a nearby speaker, or maybe catch a spontaneous dance-off. It’s fun, it’s free, and it’s never the same twice.
Visit the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster (and snap a photo!)
📍 Address: Inside Belmont Park, 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: <1 minute
💸 Budget: Free to view
While riding it comes with a ticket price, checking out the Giant Dipper up close is free—and worth it. This historic wooden roller coaster is over 95 years old and still steals the show at Belmont Park.
With its white frame and red track twisting along the skyline, it makes a great backdrop for a nostalgic beachside selfie. It’s especially photogenic at sunset when the lights switch on and the cars rattle past with excited screams.
Window Shop at Belmont Park’s Beachside Boutiques
📍 Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: <1 minute
💸 Budget: Free to browse
If you're not in the mood to spend but love a wander, the boutiques at Belmont Park offer a chill browsing experience. From surf brands and beachwear to quirky gifts and candy shops, it’s fun just to poke around and soak up the coastal style.
Some shops let you sample taffy or handmade soaps, and the vintage signage makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a beach movie from the '80s. It’s window shopping with a salty breeze—no purchase required.
Snap a Sunset Photo at the South Mission Beach Jetty
Snap a Sunset Photo at the South Mission Beach Jetty
📍 Address: 800 San Fernando Pl, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 10 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
The South Mission Beach Jetty is where locals go for that perfect golden-hour glow. With waves crashing on one side and the calm channel on the other, the contrast makes for stunning photos. It’s especially dreamy just before sunset, when the sky turns peach and lavender.
Fishermen line the rocks, boats glide through the channel, and pelicans dive for dinner—it's one of those serene spots that feels a world away from the buzz of the boardwalk. Bring a hoodie for the ocean breeze and stay a while.
Catch a Pick-Up Game at Mission Beach Basketball Courts
📍 Address: 2999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 7 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
Love hoops? Head to the outdoor courts just south of Belmont Park. The vibe is friendly but competitive, and you're welcome to jump into a pick-up game or just watch some slick moves unfold.
It’s also a great place to people-watch—with palm trees swaying and the sound of sneakers on concrete, it feels like classic California. Courts are usually busy late afternoon and early evening, especially on weekends.
Chill Out at Bonita Cove Park
📍 Address: 1100 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
🚶 Walking distance from Belmont Park: 8 minutes
💸 Budget: Free
If you’re after a calm spot to recharge, Bonita Cove is the place. This quiet bayfront park is perfect for reading, napping under a tree, or watching ducks and paddleboarders glide by.
Soak Up the Vibes Without Spending a Dime
That’s a wrap on the best free things to do near Belmont Park. Whether you’re in the mood for beach walks, people-watching, sunset views, or peaceful green spaces, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly fun in this part of San Diego. With so much to explore just steps from the rollercoaster, your wallet can take the day off—your sense of adventure’s got it covered.
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